“Today is a great day for #Virginia &
our country,” Herring said in a tweet to his more than 5,400
followers. “The #4thCircuit has affirmed the right of ALL
Virginians to marry who they love #equality.”

Herring, a Democrat, announced in
January that he would not defend the ban in court and has
subsequently filed briefs in support of plaintiff couples.

Plaintiffs in the suit also reacted to
the news.

“Each and every milestone in this
fight for marriage equality brings Tony and me one step closer to
making our dream of being married a reality,” said Tim Bostic.
“Our victory today reminds us why we filed this lawsuit – to
fight for respect and full equality not only for us, but for all
Virginians.”

Carol Schall, who joined the lawsuit to
force Virginia to recognize her California marriage to Mary Townley,
said the ruling made her proud to be a Virginian.

“The Circuit Court’s decision
reminds me of how proud I am to be a Virginian. Mary and I have
lived here for over forty years, have been in a wonderful
relationship for nearly thirty, and have raised a beautiful daughter
here in our home state. We could not be more thrilled with the
judges’ decision.”